Because I know not...

Because I know not what is wrong from right
my moral compass must lack direction
so indifferent to another's plight

Though confident in my power and might
I am not given to introspection
Because I know not what is wrong from right

Pain and suffering in my actions might
Oft be found in careful retrospection
so indifferent to another's plight

Selfishly shall I follow with delight
A path that traces its own inflection
Because I know not what is wrong from right

Those who would dare to cross me I shall smite
Deliver upon them fierce correction
so indifferent to another's plight

If I perchance should injure or cause slight
Judge me not, and offer no objection
Because I know not what is wrong from right
so indifferent to another's plight


This poem is a Villanelle, and follows the following form:

Refrain 1 (A1)
Line 2 (b)
Refrain 2 (A2)

Line 4 (a)
Line 5 (b)
Refrain 1 (A1)

Line 7 (a)
Line 8 (b)
Refrain 2 (A2)

Line 10 (a)
Line 11 (b)
Refrain 1 (A1)

Line 13 (a)
Line 14 (b)
Refrain 2 (A2)

Line 16 (a)
Line 17 (b)
Refrain 1 (A1)
Refrain 2 (A2)

Total lines: 19.
Each line has ten syllables